Stocking Australia’s favourite coffee according to the 2012 Lifestyle FOODS’s I love FOOD Awards and conveniently located on Level One in the Domestic Terminal Central Area, the proudly Brisbane company will ensure airport visitors can enjoy a fresh espresso seven days a week.

Andrew Brodie, General Manager Airline and Retail Management for BAC, said the new permanent Merlo provides an opportunity to showcase local retailers and make sure the airport is distinctly Brisbane.

“Our city is one of the most liveable places in the world and it is important we incorporate this into our terminal, and Merlo with over 20 years’ experience, will offer the perfect shot of Brisbane to the travelling public,” Mr Brodie said.

From humble beginnings operating out of a small café in Queen Street, Merlo has transformed into one of the most recognisable coffee brands in Australia with the iconic blue cup now being found in over 1,000 cafes across the country. Dean Merlo, founder of Merlo Coffee, said roasting and delivering fresh coffee daily is the key to ensuring a quality product for travellers.

“There is nothing better than a great cup of coffee either before or after a flight,” Mr Merlo said.

“We are thrilled to see the Merlo name as a permanent part of Brisbane Airport and this tenancy ensures us a convenient location to welcome passengers to the home of the fresh espresso,” said Mr Merlo.

Brisbane Airport has worked closely with Airport Retail Enterprises (ARE), who has 43 years’ experience in airport tenancy, to attract Merlo to Brisbane Airport Domestic Terminal.

John Chapman, ARE Chief Executive Officer, said the ARE family relished the opportunity to work with a Brisbane icon like Merlo.

“BAC and ARE have impressive airport experience and by adding Merlo Coffee’s expertise customers can expect the best coffee at Brisbane Airport all day, every day,” said Mr Chapman.

Brisbane Airport will continue to attract more retailers to the International and Domestic Terminal and has recently committed to a $45 million redevelopment at the International Terminal.